Chilika Lake is a hotspot of Biodiversity and largest wintering ground for Birds

Chilika Lake is the largest wintering ground for migratory birds, on the Indian sub-continent. It is one of the hotspots of biodiversity in the country. Some species listed in the IUCN Red List of threatened animals inhabit the lake for at least part of their life cycle.

Chilika is a hotspot of biodiversity and has been designated as Wetland of International importance and a RAMSAR Site. It is the biggest breeding place for Flamingos in the World. The major species of colorful birds that can be witnessed are White bellied sea eagles, Gray lag geese, purple moor hen, flamingo jacana, herons, Brahminy ducks, Pintails etc. Quacks and calls fill the fresh air pervading ones consciousness.

Every year as winter sets in millions of migratory birds from different parts of world i.e Siberia, Russia etc. flock the lake making Chilika as the largest wintering ground for birds in the subcontinent.

The beauty of Chilika has enamoured tourists and writers alike. To enable tourists to savour the serene beauty of Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon at the Dept of Tourism and Forest Department has set up accommodation facilities at the following places- Pathanivas at Barkul and Rambha . Nature Camps at Berhampura, Rajhans and Mangalajodi.

Chilika Lake is a hotspot of Biodiversity and largest wintering ground for Birds — Photos Credit Google

It also boasts of a significant population of Irrawaddy Dolphin which is the highest recorded inland population in the world. One can see groups of Dolphin diving and swimming during boating near Rajhans Nature Camp.

While you are at Chilika, take a moment to yourself and admire the beauty of this fabled lake. Indulge in a leisurely boat ride to visit the many spots that the vast expanse of the lake encompasses- the beacon island, bird island to name a few and ofcourse watch the migratory birds and the critically endangered Irrawaddy Dolphins frolic in the prey laden brackish waters. Go heritage hunting in the nearby quaint townships- Chilika never ceases to amaze.

ALSO READ:- Recruitment of meritorious sports persons in the India posts.

There’s a variety of options for you to stay at. From Star Rated Hotels, Eco Tour Nature Camps equipped with state of the art swiss tents and facilities to OTDC Government Hotels, Bed Breakfasts and Homestays.